S311: The Analytical Essay
Learning Activity – Prepare an Analytical Essay
Instructions:
1. Utilizing the seven principles of mission command, write your analytical essay, based on the case study.
2. Use your time to develop a deep understanding of your topic to fully explain your analysis. You are required to give an in depth introduction of your topic.
3. Then develop the body of the paper fully using not less than three full pages and no more than five pages.
4. Provide transitional sentences from one topic to the next.
5. Gather one additional reference for your essay.
6. Ensure you use Times New Roman, 12-point font and the current APA writing style (Student Paper).
7. Your essay should be typed, double-spaced on standard-sized paper (8.5″ x 11″) with 1″ margins on all sides.
8. Your essay should include four major sections:
a. Title Page
b. Thesis Statement
c. Main Body
d. References Page
Make sure you understand the assignment requirements contained in the 1009W Rubric located in the SLC ISAP.
INTRO
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, the United States initiated its campaign to hold those accountable, beginning with Operation Enduring Freedom. As the conflict progressed, enemy forces, such as the Taliban and Al-Qaeda sought refuge in Shahi-Kot Valley.
To counter this, Operation Anaconda, a U.S.-led military offensive, was launched in March 2002. Its primary goal aimed to eliminate and capture the remaining Taliban and Al-Qaeda fighters who had taken refuge in the Shahi-Kot Valley. This operation marked a critical effort to secure the region and weaken enemy forces in the early stages of the war in Afghanistan. At the core of this effort was Mission Command, is a leadership philosophy used in the military operations to emphasize and decentralize the decision-making process and trust between commanders and subordinates. It covers the principles of mission command and is designed to enhance flexibility, adaptability and responsiveness in an operational environment. Consequently, Operation Anaconda succeeded due to the implementation of PRINCIPLE 1, PRINCIPLE 2 and PRINCIPLE 3.
Or Operation Anaconda was a failure due to the lack of PRINCIPLE 1, PRINCIPLE 2 AND PRINCIPLE 3
II. Application of Mission Command Principles in Operation Anaconda
·
Competence
· What is it?
· Explanation of how competence was demonstrated
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Shared Understanding
· What is it?
· Explanation of how shared understanding was achieved
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Mutual Trust
· What is it?
· Explanation of how mutual trust was established and maintained
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Mission Orders
· What is it?
· Explanation of how mission orders were effectively communicated and executed
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Commander’s Intent
· What is it?
· Explanation of how the commander’s intent was clearly communicated and understood
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Disciplined Initiative
· What is it?
· Explanation of how disciplined initiative was encouraged and demonstrated
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
·
Risk Acceptance
· Explanation of how risks were appropriately accepted and managed
· Specific examples from Operation Anaconda
III. Analysis of Operation Anaconda’s Success
· Detailed analysis of how the application of the 7 principles contributed to the operation’s success
IV. Conclusion
· Recap of the main points
· Restatement of thesis: The success/failure of Operation Anaconda was a result of the effective application of the mission command principles.
· Implications for future military operations
Remember, each section should logically flow into the next, providing a coherent and comprehensive analysis of Operation Anaconda and the role of mission command principles in its success. Don’t forget to use transition words and CITE ALL YOUR SOURCES. Good luck with your paper!
